Accutane, a drug manufactured by Roche Laboratories and approved by the FDA in 1982, is used in the treatment of severe acne. The drug is very effective in attacking acne in patients who have not responded well to more conventional treatments such as topical agents or antibiotics.

Doctors must carefully monitor patients taking accutane, however, because of certain adverse reactions. Frequent blood tests are required to ensure that the drug is not damaging the liver. In addition, women who are pregnant or may become pregnant must not take or handle Accutane, as severe birth defects may result.  Accutane has also been shown to cause the following serious conditions:

  • Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IDB)
  • Ulcerative Colitis
  • Crohn’s Disease
  • Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS)
  • Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN)

A recent study published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology found that Accutane users are roughly four times more likely than non-users to have ulcerative colitis.

If you or a loved one has suffered some form of gastrointestinal distress after taking Accutane, please call (614) 766-2000 or contact Robert W. Kerpsack Co., L.P.A. online for a free consultation.